Biomedical, chemical and materials engineers are highly skilled professionals, trained to meet the challenges of today's and future technologies. Biomedical, chemical and materials engineers are qualified to design new biomaterials and biomedical devices; bioreactors for fermenting genetically engineered organisms; equipment used to make the next generation of computer chip in Silicon Valley; solutions to our energy problems such as biofuels, fuel cells, and solar cells; or desalinization plants anywhere around the world.

The unique versatility required of the chemical and materials engineer makes them valuable in almost all areas of engineering. Chemical and materials engineers are employed in many different areas, recognized for their ability to work with multidisciplinary teams to solve engineering problems. Men and women trained in this discipline find the job outlook exceptional.

Biomedical device engineers are uniquely trained with a mix of biology and engineering to jump right in and contribute to design, manufacturing, and innovation in the growing biomedical device industry.

San Jose State University has the key to success, because San Jose State creates a blend of theory, practical problem solving and industrial experience. San Jose State University is connected with industry in the Silicon Valley in many ways: students have opportunities t work and do research directly in Si Valley companies. Secondly, faculty and working students share their expertise in the classroom to benefit everyone. Alumni and professional associations play a key role in presenting opportunities for students to interact with local businesses. San Jose State University emphasizes teaching to prepare the students for immediate employment. Undergraduate students are encouraged to do research which, on other campuses, is reserved to graduate students only. Finally, our industrial advisory board works together with the faculty to ensure that our programs are preparing students to have the skills necessary to make a significant contribution to the needs of the local industries.

As a student you will find:

• Low student/teacher ratios Many students prefer the interaction in a small class. Small class size is typical in the chemical and materials engineering department.
• Faculty availability We are a small department.  The faculty will know your name and look forward to interacting with you.
• A flexible program Even though the program is designed to be completed in four years, students who work can take a lighter class load.
• An active student community Combined with an atmosphere of serious study, the students in our department are active in professional clubs to build networking skills and life-long friendships, providing the foundation to have not just a job, but a career.

Career Planning

Preparation for a career in Biomedical, Chemical and Materials Engineering should begin in high school by taking as many math and science courses as possible. Physics, chemistry, algebra, trigonometry, analytic geometry, calculus, and computer science are particularly important. Since engineers must communicate their technical ideas to those they work with throughout the world, effective writing and interpersonal communication skills are also very important. Taking courses in English literature, foreign language, and speech will help prepare you for studying in our department and a global career in engineering.